When Women Lead, Peace Follows: UN Emphasizes Women’s Role in Peacebuilding

New York, October 15, 2025 — The United Nations has launched its 2025 campaign under the theme “When Women Lead, Peace Follows”, spotlighting the critical role of women in fostering peace, preventing conflict, and promoting sustainable development around the world.

The campaign comes amid ongoing global crises, where women continue to be disproportionately affected by conflict yet remain underrepresented in peace negotiations and decision-making processes. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the importance of inclusive leadership, noting that countries and communities benefit when women take on prominent roles in governance and conflict resolution.

“Evidence shows that when women are meaningfully involved in peace processes, agreements are more likely to last, communities are more resilient, and human rights are better protected,” Guterres said at a UN briefing in New York. “Investing in women leaders is not just a matter of equality—it is a matter of global security.”

Data from the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs indicates that peace agreements with women’s participation are 35% more likely to be durable over a 15-year period. Yet, women account for less than 20% of negotiators and mediators in formal peace processes worldwide.

The campaign features a series of high-profile events, including regional workshops, leadership programs, and the launch of an interactive global map highlighting women peacebuilders’ work in conflict zones from Africa to the Middle East. Special emphasis is placed on mentoring young women and supporting grassroots initiatives that amplify women’s voices in political and community spheres.

UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous emphasized that the initiative goes beyond advocacy. “We are working to remove barriers, provide training, and ensure resources reach women who are leading peacebuilding efforts on the front lines,” she said. “Sustainable peace is impossible without gender equality and women’s full participation.”

Several countries have already pledged support, including funding for programs that train female mediators and support women-led community reconciliation projects. Civil society organizations, academic institutions, and private sector partners are joining the effort to create networks of women leaders capable of driving meaningful change in conflict-affected regions.

As global attention focuses on this year’s campaign, the UN hopes to inspire policymakers, civil society, and citizens worldwide to recognize that empowering women is not a side issue—it is central to achieving lasting peace and stability. The campaign slogan, “When Women Lead, Peace Follows,” serves as both a reminder and a call to action for governments and communities alike.